Tuesday, December 30, 2025 | Dubai | Posted Time: 8:16 pm last update: 31 Dec 25 04:01 am
UAE New Year 2026 is just hours away, and Dubai has turned into a city of lights and celebrations. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced major updates for residents and tourists. To make travel easy, public parking in Dubai will be free on January 1. However, this does not apply to multi-story parking and Al Khail Gate area. Regular parking fees will return on January 2. Furthermore, the city is expecting millions of visitors. Therefore, the authorities have arranged massive transport facilities to avoid traffic jams in the Downtown area.
Non-Stop Metro for 43 Hours
One of the biggest highlights for uae new year 2026 is the non-stop Dubai Metro service. The Red and Green lines will run continuously for 43 hours. This service starts at 5:00 am on Wednesday (Dec 31) and ends at midnight on Thursday (Jan 1). Additionally, the Dubai Tram will operate from 6:00 am on Wednesday until 1:00 am on Friday. Residents are advised to use public transport to reach celebration hubs like Burj Khalifa. Because of the heavy crowd, some stations might have restricted entry for safety reasons.
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Extended Timings for Parks and Attractions
Dubai Municipality has extended the opening hours of major parks for the celebrations. Zabeel Park and Al Safa Park will stay open until 1:00 am. Other popular spots like Creek Park and Mushrif National Park will remain open until midnight. If you want to see something unique, visit the Dubai Frame. It will host a spectacular fireworks display and a high-tech drone show. Most lake parks, including Al Barsha and Al Nahda, will also welcome visitors until 1:00 am. Consequently, families have plenty of options to enjoy the night under the stars.
Mega Prizes and Events for Workers
This year, the government is also organizing special events for the labor community. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) is hosting celebrations in Al Quoz, Jebel Ali, and Muhaisnah. Over 500,000 Dirhams worth of prizes will be given away through lucky draws. Prizes include cars, gold coins, and mobile phones. Moreover, Bollywood stars like Zarine Khan and singers like Sneha Upadhyaya will perform live. This initiative reflects the UAE’s humanitarian approach to including everyone in the festive spirit of uae new year 2026.
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Weather Alert and Safety Tips
While the city is celebrating, the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather alert. Strong winds up to 40 km/h and rough seas are expected in the Arabian Gulf. Therefore, authorities have advised people to avoid swimming or diving until Wednesday morning. Temperatures will drop slightly, making the outdoors pleasant but windy. If you are traveling on highways, be careful of dust and low visibility. Following these safety guidelines will ensure a smooth and happy start to your new year.
uae new year 2026: Essential Travel & Event Guide
- Free Parking: Available on January 1 across Dubai (except multi-story and Al Khail Gate).
- Metro Service: Runs non-stop for 43 hours from Dec 31 morning to Jan 1 night.
- Dubai Frame: Special drone shows and fireworks available until 9:00 pm.
- Bus Changes: E100 bus to Abu Dhabi will not run from Al Ghubiba; use E101 from Ibn Battuta instead.
- Park Hours: Major parks like Zabeel and Al Safa are open until 1:00 am.
- Worker Festivals: Huge concerts and prize draws in Al Quoz and Jebel Ali.
- Weather Warning: Strong winds and high waves expected; avoid sea activities.
- Customer Centers: RTA offices are closed on Jan 1, but smart centers work 24/7.
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